Journalist

박세진
Kim Dae-sik
  • [K-pop] Netflix animation K-pop Demon Hunters tops global streaming chart, fuels real-world fandom
    [[K-pop]] Netflix animation 'K-pop Demon Hunters' tops global streaming chart, fuels real-world fandom SEOUL, July 21 (AJP) - The animated Netflix film K-pop Demon Hunters continues to dominate globally, reaching No. 1 on FlixPatrol's "TOP 10 on Streaming in the World" on July 20. The film, which premiered on June 20, led daily VOD rankings across 941 platforms in 167 countries, including Netflix and Amazon. Blending K-pop stardom with supernatural action, the film centers on two fictional idol groups, Huntrix and Saja Boys, who double as demon slayers while dominating the music scene. Despite being entirely fictional, the characters have gained a massive global following, with original songs from the film going viral and fan-made content flooding social media platforms. The impact has been especially visible in streaming numbers. Since the film's release, K-pop tracks featured in the movie have seen a surge in online plays, with new listeners joining from regions where K-pop had limited reach until now. Merchandise sales have also spiked, with character-themed apparel, posters, and soundtracks selling out in multiple markets. Viewers have shared stories of watching the film repeatedly with family members, especially younger audiences who were drawn to dynamic animation and catchy songs. The film's success also highlights the rising influence of virtual idols and AI-enhanced entertainment in South Korea. Mysteri, a masked member of Saja Boys, whose solo track from the film became a viral hit. The singer behind the voice, Kevin Woo, was later seen performing the song with children, a moment that further cemented the emotional connection between fans and these virtual stars. 2025-07-21 15:13:54
  • S. Koreas security chief visits Washington for urgent talks as tariff deadline approaches
    S. Korea's security chief visits Washington for urgent talks as tariff deadline approaches SEOUL, July 21 (AJP) - South Korea's National Security Advisor Wi Sung-lac has arrived in Washington, D.C. on Sunday (local time), returning just 11 days after his previous trip, to prevent a looming trade conflict with the United States and finalize plans for a summit between South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and U.S. President Donald Trump. South Korean officials predict that Wi will meet U.S. Secretary of State Mark Rubio, who also serves as National Security Advisor. Wi's visit comes ahead of the August 1 deadline, when the U.S. is set to impose a 25 percent tariff on South Korean imports unless a new agreement is reached. Trump had released a letter addressed to Lee earlier this month, warning that South Korean goods would face steep tariffs unless trade terms were changed. "South Korea is making a lot of money, and they're very good, they're very good, but, you know, they should be paying for their own military," Trump said during a cabinet meeting at the White House on July 8. His remarks were interpreted in Seoul as an attempt to link trade negotiations with security issues, including defense cost‑sharing. Officials believe that Wi's trip is aimed at reaching a last-minute understanding to avoid what South Korea sees as a "tariff bomb." During his earlier visit in early July, Wi and Rubio reportedly agreed on the need for an early summit between Lee and Trump, though no date was set. 2025-07-21 14:50:31
  • Police find homemade bomb at suspects home after fatal gun attack
    Police find homemade bomb at suspect's home after fatal gun attack SEOUL, July 21 (AJP) - Police on Monday raided the home of a man in his 60s who had fatally shot his son the night before, retrieving a homemade explosive device. The suspect is now being questioned in connection with the rare firearm-related homicide, an unusual occurrence in South Korea, where private gun ownership is strictly regulated. According to the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, on July 21, a special operations team was dispatched to the suspect's apartment in northeastern Seoul, where they found and safely dismantled improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The materials included gasoline and paint thinner, rigged to a timer. The operation followed a confession from the suspect during police questioning that he had planted explosives in his residence. Authorities evacuated all 106 residents from the building and the nearby area before entering the apartment. Police said the explosives were neutralized at approximately 4:24 a.m. The suspect had been on the run after allegedly shooting his son, a man in his 30s, at an apartment in the western port city of Incheon around 9:30 p.m. Sunday. The victim was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead shortly afterward. Gun-related crimes are extremely rare in South Korea, where civilian ownership of firearms is tightly controlled. Handguns and rifles are generally prohibited without special authorization, and most legal firearms, such as hunting rifles, are kept at police stations. The use of both a homemade firearm and explosives in this case has drawn widespread public concern and prompted a swift response from authorities. 2025-07-21 10:11:47
  • KAIST and Yoshua Bengio develop breakthrough to make AI diffusion models 100 times faster
    KAIST and Yoshua Bengio develop breakthrough to make AI diffusion models 100 times faster SEOUL, July 20 (AJP) - A research team at South Korea’s prestigious research institution KAIST, in collaboration with renowned artificial intelligence scholar Yoshua Bengio from the University of Montreal, has developed a technique that significantly accelerates the performance of AI diffusion models while maintaining high output quality. The new method addresses one of the biggest barriers to deploying diffusion models in real-time applications such as robotics and decision-making systems. KAIST said on Sunday that the project was led by Professor Ahn Sung-jin from KAIST’s School of Computing was carried out through the KAIST-MILA Prefrontal AI Joint Research Center collaboration project. Diffusion models, widely used in AI for tasks like image and text generation, are known for their slow inference speed, which has limited their real-world utility in time-sensitive systems. The research team tackled this issue by introducing an inference approach based on Monte Carlo Tree Search, a strategy often used in game AI to explore decision paths. By modeling the generation process as a tree and strategically narrowing down the most promising paths, the method was able to produce high-quality outputs using limited computational resources. It also achieved a 100 percent success rate in a large-scale maze-solving task, a benchmark that previous models consistently failed to complete. The study was presented as a Spotlight paper at the 2025 International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML), held in Vancouver from July. 13 to 19. Spotlight papers are selected from the top 2.6 percent of all submissions, reflecting the technical significance and novelty of the work. While the initial version of the model demonstrated impressive accuracy, its speed remained a challenge. To address this, the team conducted follow-up research to parallelize the tree search algorithm, dramatically boosting its efficiency. The revised model achieved inference speeds up to 100 times faster than previous versions, with no loss in performance. "This study fundamentally breaks through the high computational cost barrier of conventional diffusion models," said Ahn Sung-jin. "We expect the technique to serve as a core technology across various domains, from intelligent robotics and simulation-based planning to real-time generative AI." The research was led by Ph.D. candidate Yoon Jae-sik, with contributions from Cho Hyeon-seo, Baek Doo-jin, Bengio, and Ahn. The results were published in two papers. The first, titled Monte Carlo Tree Diffusion for System 2 Planning, was authored by Yoon Jae-sik, Cho Hyeon-seo, Baek Doo-jin, Yoshua Bengio, and Ahn Sung-jin. The second paper, Fast Monte Carlo Tree Diffusion: 100x Speedup via Parallel Sparse Planning, was co-authored by Yoon Jae-sik, Cho Hyeon-seo, Yoshua Bengio, and Ahn Sung-jin. Both were posted on the preprint server arXiv. The study was supported by the National Research Foundation of South Korea. 2025-07-20 14:58:57
  • Viet Nams top leader To Lam to visit South Korea for summit with President Lee
    Viet Nam's top leader To Lam to visit South Korea for summit with President Lee SEOUL, July 16 (AJP) - General Secretary To Lam, the top-ranking official in Viet Nam's Communist Party, is set to visit South Korea in August for a summit with President Lee Jae-myung, diplomatic sources confirmed Wednesday. Lam is expected to arrive on August 10. Both sides are now working to schedule a summit meeting for the following day, August 11. This will be Lam's first visit to South Korea and the first by a Vietnamese general secretary in 11 years, following Nguyen Phu Trong’s trip in 2014. During the summit, President Lee and General Secretary Lam are expected to explore ways to expand bilateral cooperation in strategic sectors, including high-speed rail and nuclear power. The talks will be framed under the two countries' existing comprehensive strategic partnership. On July 4, Lam and Vietnamese President Luong Cuong sent a joint message congratulating President Lee on his election and inauguration. "We look forward to enhancing the relationship between Viet Nam and South Korea in a more practical, effective, and comprehensive way," the message read. "This will serve the interests of both peoples and contribute to peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the region and around the world. We are ready to work with President Lee and the Republic of Korea to make that happen." President Cuong followed up with a phone call on June 12, less than two weeks after Lee took office. During the call, he wished President Lee a successful term. Thuong was the fifth foreign head of state to speak with Lee after calls from U.S. President Donald Trump, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala. President Lee noted the progress in bilateral relations since diplomatic ties were established in 1992. He pointed to growth in trade, investment, and human exchanges, and expressed hope for deeper cooperation under the comprehensive strategic partnership. President Cuong welcomed Lee’s remarks and emphasized Viet Nam’s interest in strengthening ties with South Korea, calling it a trusted and essential partner in Viet Nam’s economic development and modernization. Both leaders agreed to advance cooperation in strategic industries such as high-speed transportation and energy. President Lee also requested support for South Korean businesses operating in Viet Nam. President Thuong responded positively. Cuong invited Lee to visit Viet Nam. Lee said he looked forward to the visit and added that he hoped for continued high-level exchanges between the two countries, including through forums such as APEC. 2025-07-16 16:45:26
  • New Zealand Embassy marks 10 years of free trade deal with South Korea
    New Zealand Embassy marks 10 years of free trade deal with South Korea SEOUL, July 16 (AJP) - SEOUL — The New Zealand Embassy in South Korea on Tuesday released a video series to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Korea–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, highlighting a decade of growing trade and cooperation between the two countries. The embassy said that the agreement, which came into force in 2015, has more than doubled trade between South Korea and New Zealand. Today, South Korea stands as New Zealand’s fifth-largest trading partner, and the deal continues to provide real, measurable benefits and new opportunities for exporters. Recent developments include New Zealand gaining access to the South Korean market for blueberries and dairy products. In return, South Korea has been granted approval to export mandarins to New Zealand. The embassy described these outcomes as clear examples of how the agreement remains active and mutually beneficial. Both governments have also agreed to explore a potential upgrade of the agreement. According to the embassy, South Korea’s capabilities in technology and manufacturing, combined with New Zealand’s expertise in food and beverage, sustainability, and education, offer strong potential for deeper cooperation. To mark the anniversary, the embassy produced a three-part video series. It features Ambassador Dawn Bennet in a segment on Korean food and New Zealand wine pairings with chef Keewuk Lee, a kapa haka performance by the Hiwa Crew at the National Museum of Korea, and a visit to Seoul National University that highlights the importance of educational exchange between the two nations. "This video series is a celebration of the vibrant and evolving partnership between New Zealand and Korea," Ambassador Bennet said. "Through food, culture, and education, we’re telling the story of a relationship that goes beyond trade, one built on shared values, mutual respect, and a growing connection between our people." 2025-07-16 13:41:47
  • NewJeans producer Min Hee-jin cleared of criminal charges, HYBE to appeal
    NewJeans' producer Min Hee-jin cleared of criminal charges, HYBE to appeal SEOUL, July 15 (AJP) -South Korea's police have cleared former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin of breach of trust allegations filed by HYBE, the parent company behind K-pop girl group NewJeans. The Yongsan Police Station said Tuesday that after more than a year of investigation, the case would not be forwarded to prosecutors. HYBE filed the complaint in April 2024, accusing Min of attempting to take control of ADOR by colluding with outside investors and bypassing the internal decision-making process. At the time, HYBE held an 80 percent stake in the label, which Min had led since its launch. Min's legal team welcomed the police decision, stating, "After more than a year of investigation, police have found no grounds for criminal suspicion. Both the breach of trust and embezzlement allegations have been dismissed." HYBE responded that it would formally appeal the decision. The company pointed to a recent ruling by the Seoul High Court which stated that Min had “intentionally destroyed the integrated structure that was the premise of the exclusive contract,” referring to the internal governance and contractual foundation of ADOR and NewJeans. The legal dispute began with HYBE’s audit of ADOR in early 2024, which quickly escalated into a public power struggle between the two sides. Following the fallout, the five members of NewJeans attempted to terminate their contracts and began operating under the name "NJZ." The move was not authorized by ADOR. In June 2025, the Seoul High Court issued an injunction in favor of ADOR, blocking the members from promoting independently or using the NJZ name. The court reaffirmed that the group remains legally bound to ADOR and imposed penalties of up to one billion won, about $725,000, per violation. Although the police decision relieves Min of criminal responsibility, HYBE maintains that her actions caused structural harm to the company and continues to seek further legal review. The company says the police ruling does not reflect more recent developments that have come to light during civil proceedings. 2025-07-15 16:33:51
  • SHINees Onew to release second full-length album PERCENT
    SHINee's Onew to release second full-length album "PERCENT" SEOUL, July 15 (AJP) - K-pop group SHINee member Onew will return to the music scene with the release of his second full-length album, "PERCENT," dropping Tuesday at 6:00 p.m. (0900 GMT). The album arrives five months after his January mini-album "CONNECTION." According to his agency, SM Entertainment, the title track "ANIMALS" captures the moment when instinct takes control. The song features a refined bass line, acoustic guitar, synths, and sound effects that mimic animal calls. Rather than repeating the same structure, Onew develops a narrative that creates tension and movement throughout the track. The music video, which will be released alongside the album, visualizes this theme by showing instinct awakening and reason giving way. Onew said he hopes listeners will feel free to follow their instincts and enjoy moments of joy, “even if only under a full moon.” "PERCENT" includes a variety of songs that reflect different moods and themes. The opening track "Silky" embraces rest and laziness, while "Caffeine" uses unusual harmonies to express a sense of addiction. "Marshmallow" describes the feeling of falling in love, and "Confidence" symbolically captures Onew’s emotional rhythm in uncertain times. The track "오래 OKㅋ" offers comfort with a light, humorous tone. Other songs include "Far Away," which contrasts sharp sounds to express a desire to escape confusion, and "MAD," which explores the emotional aftermath of a breakup. The track "PERCENT (%)" experiments with sound to portray a wide emotional range, while "Epilogue" focuses on a sincere, vocal-driven narrative. The album closes with "Happy Birthday," a song about hope and gratitude. Onew has described "PERCENT" as a personal story of being emptied, filled, and shaped by interaction with the world. He said, “No one can reach 100 percent alone, but even imperfect beings are beautiful in their own way.” He participated in the overall production of the album, showing his artistic growth. To celebrate the release, a pop-up store titled "ONEW 2ND ALBUM 'PERCENT' POP-UP STORE" has opened at the first floor open stage of Shinsegae Gangnam. The space features interactive displays and fan events designed around the album’s concept. 2025-07-15 14:15:26
  • NCT DREAM marks 9th anniversary with time travel-themed album Go Back To The Future
    NCT DREAM marks 9th anniversary with time travel-themed album 'Go Back To The Future' SEOUL, July 14 (AJP) - As NCT DREAM approaches its 9th anniversary, the group is making a comeback with its fifth full-length album, "Go Back To The Future," built around the concept of time travel. The album was officially introduced during a press conference on Monday at Lotte Cinema World Tower in Seoul. The seven-member group, including Mark, Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, and Jisung, explores the past, present, and future in a narrative that connects their beginnings in 2016 to their current identity in 2025 and a distant future they call the "Absolute Present." To fully realize the time travel theme, they received official approval to pay homage to the film "Back to the Future" from Universal Studios and Amblin Entertainment, combining familiar visuals like hoverboards with NCT DREAM's own symbols. "It is an album with double title tracks. It consists of nine songs and carries a theme of time travel," Mark explained. "We, the quirky seven members of NCT DREAM, accidentally discover a time machine, which is a hoverboard. As NCT DREAM, known for our storytelling, we included many fun elements in the album revolving around time." "BTTF" (Back To The Future), one of the title tracks, reflects on the idea of understanding a regret-free past while facing choices that can change the future. Jeno described the song as intense and central to the album’s message. Renjun added, "All the time in the past has accumulated to create the current NCT DREAM. Some lyrics recur like a slogan, capturing our shining selves from the past, present, and future." The group also nodded to their origins by wearing the same pajamas from their debut music video in the "BTTF" video, recreating those early scenes. "It conveys the message that the 'us' back then has led to the 'us' now," they said. The second title track, "CHILLER," shifts the focus to enjoying the present with confidence. Chenle noted, "It is a song that follows 'BTTF.' It carries a message of enjoying my most radiant self just as I am. The word 'CHILLER' itself conveys a sense of leisure." Jaemin added that it was recorded in a relaxed but sincere atmosphere to match the lyrics' tone. This is the first time NCT DREAM has selected two title tracks. "Rather than deciding to have double title tracks from the planning stage, we both loved them so much that we ended up going with double title tracks," Chenle explained. The album also includes "I LIKE IT," "DREAM TEAM," and "Interlude: Back to Our PARADISE," as well as ballads like "My Rain Shower ('Bout You)," "When the Summer Wind Blows (That Summer)," and "Dawn Star (Miss Me)." "Beautiful Sailing" closes the album, reflecting on their journey and hinting at what lies ahead. Ahead of the release, NCT DREAM held a three-day concert at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul, drawing 60,000 fans and setting a new group record. "If those who attended the performances feel that they made the right choice to see an NCT DREAM concert, that brings me great fulfillment," Jaemin said. Jisung reflected on their near-decade-long career, saying, "I feel pride in being a team that can hold a concert at Gocheok Dome." Haechan added, "Even though we are approaching the 9th anniversary, we will show a passion as if it's just our 9th day since debut." NCT DREAM said their main goal is to deliver the album’s message clearly. "While each of us may have various new dreams, I believe that achieving the dream we initially had is valuable," Mark said. "Instead of dreaming different dreams, we want to carry the message, even if the form differs." "Go Back To The Future" was released on Jul. 14 at 6 p.m. on major music platforms and is also available as a physical album. 2025-07-14 15:14:10
  • BigHit to debut new BTS brother band next month
    BigHit to debut new BTS' brother band next month SEOUL, July 14 (AJP) - BigHit Music, home to BTS and Tomorrow X Together (TXT), said Monday that it will debut a new five-member boy band on Aug. 18. This will be the label's first rookie group since TXT, which debuted in 2019. The new act features Martin, James, Juhoon, Sunghyun, and Gunho. All are teenagers and will work together as a creative unit without being limited to fixed roles. BigHit described them as a "young creator crew" who writes music, choreographs, and produces visuals on their own terms. "With a completely new and original sensibility, they will showcase their creative talent through lyrics, composition, performance, and videography based on their own stories," the company said. Martin and James have already been involved in producing TXT's "Deja Vu" and "Miracle," and ILLIT's "Magnetic." James also contributed to the choreography for "Deja Vu," "Magnetic," "Cherish," and "Tick-Tack." Details such as the group's name will be revealed later. 2025-07-14 10:02:42